Fort LeBoeuf Bison Boys Coach (season): David Gerard (1st season)2011-12 overall record: 9-132011-12 region record (place): 4-10 (sixth)2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.Top players lost: Mike Lockhart, Tyler Hering, Donnie Greggs, Jake Campbell, Tyler YostTop returning players: Pat Kress, Mike Boccio, Sam GambillAssistant coaches: Todd Burchanowski, Ed Dimattio, Bob Vahey, Gary DahnOutlook: Fort LeBoeuf will look to build its growing program without coach Kevin O’Connor. After O’Connor took the McDowell job, his assistant, David Gerard, was promoted to head coach. Gerard will have some challenges as the Bison lost a talented group to graduation in Mike Lockhart, Tyler Hering, Donnie Greggs, Jake Campbell and Tyler Yost. Lockhart was LeBoeuf’s leading rebounder last year, while Hering, an all-region selection, paced the Bison in scoring. With a lot of experience and leadership gone, Gerard is looking to several seniors to step up. Pat Kress, Mike Boccio and Sam Gambill are back to lead LeBoeuf, while seniors Shawn Meehl and Ian Sweeney could be contributors this season. LeBoeuf has plenty of team speed and quickness this year but a big factor could be how well the young and inexperienced players come together as a team with the returning seniors. Height will be an issue along with inexperience but Gerard believes LeBoeuf has the talent to knock off some teams if each player accepts their role.

Girls Coach (season, record): Beth Crider (2nd season, 7-15)2011-12 overall record: 7-152011-12 region record (place): 3-11 (sixth)2011-12 playoff results: Did not qualify for the District 10 Class AAA playoffs.Top players lost: Lindsay Bean, Gabby Kennelley, Katelyn BlackmonTop returning players: Abby Deemer, Cora Surrena, Jolene YoungAssistant coach: Rachel DillonOutlook: Fort LeBoeuf is still in transition as the Bison adjust to a new system with second-year coach Beth Crider. LeBoeuf improved throughout last winter to win seven games and could be in line to keep progressing this year. The Bison return three starters in Abby Deemer, Cora Surrena and Jolene Young. All three are big-time contributors and could be counted on as leaders after LeBoeuf lost Lindsay Bean, Gabby Kennelley and Katelyn Blackmon to graduation. Courtney Oberlander, Judy O’Neill and Julia Boyd could be big-time contributors right away this year. The Bison can push the ball and play together but confidence could be the key. With powerhouses like Mercyhurst Prep and Villa Maria in their region, the Bison could be intimidated or could face the challenges head on this winter. If LeBoeuf can develop its new players to complement returning starters, the Bison could be a tough out each night they take the court.